George Michael got a star-studded salute at the 2026 VMAs on Sunday, September 27, 2026 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with Sombr, RAYE, and Teddy Swims delivering his biggest hits — and a surprise finale from Adam Lambert.
Image: Insasse via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.5)
Key facts
Country singer-songwriter Orville Peck introduced the tribute, calling George Michael "a pop god" and pointing to the upcoming Faith Tour live album and concert film as a reminder of the icon's lasting legacy.
Sombr opened the medley with "Faith" — stepping out in a leather-pants look that echoed the song's original video — before sliding into "Father Figure."
RAYE followed with "I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)," weaving Michael's original vocals into the arrangement for a duet across time.
Teddy Swims then delivered "Careless Whisper," complete with its signature saxophone line.
The closing surprise was Adam Lambert, who made an unannounced appearance to perform "Freedom! '90," joined on stage by MNEK, MEEK, Saint Harison and the other tribute performers.
The tribute tied to the 40th anniversary of Michael's landmark Faith album and to the upcoming George Michael: The Faith Tour live album (out November 6, 2026) and concert film (in theaters December 11, 2026).
George Michael died in 2016 at age 53. He won four VMAs during his career and received the Video Vanguard Award in 1989, presented by Madonna.
Quotes
Orville Peck: "George Michael was a pop god. He became an international superstar at only 19... His music and videos were timeless anthems and powerful statements against the establishment."
FAQ
Who performed the George Michael tribute at the 2026 VMAs?
Sombr, RAYE, and Teddy Swims, with Adam Lambert as the surprise closing performer.
Which George Michael songs were performed?
"Faith," "Father Figure," "I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)," "Careless Whisper," and "Freedom! '90."
When is the Faith Tour live album out?
The George Michael: The Faith Tour live album is out November 6, 2026; the concert film arrives in theaters on December 11, 2026.
Why a George Michael tribute in 2026?
It marks the 40th anniversary of his Faith album and the 10th anniversary of his 2016 death.
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